Presentation Instructions

Child Development Theories

7400:610

 

Student Presentations

Instructions

 

It has been my experience that students who prepare and deliver presentation on a given topic are more active learners (compared to just listening to a lecture, which is very passive). In addition to helping you to practice your presentation skills, having to present on a theory will give you the opportunity to speak authoritatively on that topic. It will give you practice answering questions from your peers and the instructor. In short, I believe this will help to make you ready for the thesis or project proposal and defense. Of course, it will also help to make you an expert on at least one developmental theory.

 

I will assign a theory to you. On the day that theory is scheduled to be discussed in class, come prepared to give a 45 minute presentation covering the following:

·        Influences/origins of the theory (There is often one person associated with a theory, but who else influenced the theorist? What were the prevalent theories of the time? Were there historical events that might have influenced the theory?)

·        Basic components of the theory

·        How the theory has been studied/research (e.g. case studies, large scale investigations, Strange Situation Procedure, ethnographic studies…)

·        Applications of the theory (e.g. educational practices, therapeutic approaches, hospital practices, laws/policy changes, etc.)

 

At the beginning of class, turn in a typed outline that is at least two (2) pages. You are required to use Powerpoint or other media (such as handouts or overheads) to help organize and focus your presentation. At least two (2) outside scholarly sources (aside from textbooks, assigned readings, and web notes) are required. Your references must be cited in your presentation (at least verbally), and you must include a list of your references with your outline. Please number your pages, and don’t forget to include your name, topic, course number, and date on a separate cover page.

 

The key to getting all the points is to be prepared. It doesn’t hurt to practice and time yourself the day before. Students who practice their

presentations are usually less nervous, make more eye contact with the class, and are more comfortable answering questions.

 

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